If you are a beneficiary of the SASSA R350 grant or want to apply for this assistance for the first time, this article is a must-read for you. The SASSA R350 grant update for April 2025 has been released, and the South African Social Security Agency (SASSA) has confirmed the payment dates.
All beneficiaries must verify their payment status beforehand during 26 to 28 April 2025 because this period represents the set grant payment dates.
What is the SASSA R350 Grant?
SASSA implemented the Social Relief of Distress (SRD) R350 grant as a social protection scheme which began operation during the COVID-19 pandemic period of 2020. The program exists to assist jobless individuals who lack all other income sources including social grants and public support.
This scheme has provided help to 11 million South Africans up to this point.
Who is eligible?
The eligibility criteria for the SASSA R350 grant are:
- Be a South African citizen, permanent resident, refugee or asylum seeker with a valid permit.
- Be between 18 and 59 years of age.
- Be unemployed and not receiving any other government or social assistance, such as:
- NSFAS funding
- UIF benefits
- Other social grants or income
The Older Person’s Grant is available for people over 60 and the Disability Grant is available for people with disabilities.
How to apply for the SASSA R350 grant?
1. Apply online (the easiest way)
- Open the website: https://srd.sassa.gov.za
- Enter your South African ID number and mobile number.
- Receive the OTP and complete the form.
- Fill in your banking details correctly.
2. Apply via WhatsApp
- Save this number: 082 046 8553
- Send “SRD” and follow the instructions.
3. GovChat or Facebook
- Visit GovChat.org
- Or use SASSA’s Facebook Messenger service.
4. In-person application (in special cases)
- Visit your nearest SASSA office and ask for help with the application.
How to check application status?
- Go to: SASSA SRD Status Check
- Enter your ID number and mobile number.
- Click the “Submit” button.
The status may show the following words:
- Approved: Your payment has been approved.
- Pending: Your application is being reviewed.
- Denied: You can file an appeal.
What to do if your application is rejected?
Don’t panic! You can appeal within 30 days:
- Go to: SASSA Appeals Portal
- Enter ID and mobile number.
- Submit the appeal for the relevant month and reason.
Provide all the information correctly and honestly for verification. Often the application is rejected due to wrong bank details or any other income source.
How and where will the payment be made?
1. Bank Transfer (Safest method)
Money will be deposited directly into your bank account.
Make sure your bank details and ID number are the same.
2. Cash Send (Without Bank Account)
Cash can be withdrawn by using OTP from the registered mobile number.
3. Cash Collection from Retail Stores
You can collect the grant from these stores:
- Shoprite
- Checkers
- Pick n Pay
- Boxer
- USave
It is mandatory to bring ID and a registered mobile number.
4. Payment from the Post Office
- This option is gradually being discontinued.
- Confirm with your local post office beforehand.
Tips to avoid payment delays
- Enter the ID and mobile number correctly.
- Update banking details on the SASSA portal in time.
- Do not use someone else’s bank account.
- Be sure to check the status once a week (especially in the second or third week of April).
April 2025 Payment Dates
SASSA has confirmed that the payment for April will be made between 26 April (Saturday) and 28 April (Monday). If your application is approved, make sure you have provided the correct bank details.
Conclusion
The SASSA R350 grant is a lifeline for millions of people who are facing hardships. It is important to understand the application, status check and payment process properly for the April 2025 payment.
Always keep your information updated, check the status regularly, and contact the SASSA helpline (0800 60 10 11) if you have any problems.
FAQs
Q1. When will the April 2025 payment be made?
A: Between 26 and 28 April 2025.
Q2. If I did not apply in the previous months, can I apply now?
A: Yes, you can reapply or appeal separately for any month.
Q3. Can I collect the grant for someone else?
A: No, this assistance is personal, and the beneficiary has to collect it himself with ID.
Q4. What if my mobile number has changed?
A: Go to the SASSA website and update the number in the “Update Your Details” section.
Q5. Is there an application deadline for April 2025?
A: There is no fixed deadline, but it is better to apply at the beginning of the month.